"Best Suburb in Perth"

I've lived in Bassendean for 10 years and have lived and rented in many different suburbs in Perth. What I love about Bassendean is the friendly people and the neighbourly feel about the entire area. I live very close to the railway station and use it every day and regularly use it at night and I have NEVER notived any smell of urine or felt unsafe there and I should know as I am a person with a visual disability and don't drive so use Bassendean train station all the time to get to work (the city) which takes 14 minutes! There are always friendly railway security and I use the train to travel at night to visit friends, go to the city and you can travel anywhere in Perth using the great bus system-the Swan Valley, Morley Galleria; catch the train to Bayswater, 2 stops from Basso and hop on the 98/99 circle route and travel to any University or hospital in Perth-it's fantastic for public transport. Lots of leafy green parks, central shopping with Coles and Woolies, Gloria Jeans and Subway, schools, new public library, local doctor, dentist and vet, 2 local delis that stay open to 9p.m and 11p.m, what more could you ask for? As for house sale prices, less than 10 kms drive from the city, how cheap to buy in-must be the best kept secret in Perth. If you don't have much money, buy your first house here, you won't regret it-I did and love living here-in the leafy green suburb of Bassendean.

Pros

Great for First HomeOwner

Excellent Public transport, trains and buses, takes you anywhere you's like to go in Perth yo

"You wouldn’t know me from a bar of soap."

The place hasn’t really changed all that much since we moved into the area in 1960. We lived on the boarder of Ashfield / Bassendean. We were always down on the river. Never had a hassle.

Title: White Rocks.Author: George Eaton-Parkes(Fiction. 2016)

The 8am summer sun peered through the louvered glass windows of the sleep-out and gently caressed the emotionalist face of sleeping Anthony, better known as Tony to his friends, which caused him to slowly open his heavy eyelids and look at his birthday present that was proudly on its bike stand next to his bed. New bicycles are never left outside, well, not for the first 3 weeks anyway. Tony was observing how the sunlight was creating patterns on the wooden floor as it passed through the chrome spoked wheels of his new Malvern Star Dragster bicycle, when he began to smile as he realised it was Saturday, no school today.

Tony lived in the working class neighbourhood of 1970s Ashfield in Western Australia, in a lime green painted State Government owned weatherboard house at 22 Colstoun Road which was just a hop, skip and a jump to the Swan River, and the same distance to school.

Predominately inhabited by those of Anglo-Saxon descent, the neighbourhood did have its sprinkling of other cultures, but more like a Pizza topping with a lot of white daubs of Mozzarella cheese, and no black olives. Tony was considered different because even though born in Australia his parents were from Croatia and Serbia, so it didn't take long for the racist spearheads to penetrate a sensitive heart, where the fault line of prejudice ran deep in the human heart. In time he did learn to deflect the spears with an acquired bogan attitude and tattoos of intimidation.

Tony and his two other good friends Shaun and Angelo, born in Australia to parents from Ireland and Italy, had built a galvanised tin canoe from skills they learnt in metalwork at Cyril Jackson Senior High school, where they were year 9 students. The canoe, which the group christened Tadpole, was kept at Tony’s place on a trailer they made from an old discarded pram, and was pulled along by a fixed metal bar that could be attached to any conventional bicycle seat. They excelled in trade skills like woodwork and metalwork, and often had an old car parked at Tony’s place in different stages of refurbishment. The current old Valiant AP6 was only ever used as a meeting place for the group where dreams were created and destroyed in the same sentence, and where Joey the pet Kelpie liked sleeping on the rear bench seat, and storing the footballs he used to steal from those playing kick-to-kick on the Ashfield Reserve sports ground. No one on the sports ground could ever catch Joey as he ran away with any number of acquired footballs firmly gripped by the laces between his upper and lower canines, at a period in time when dogs could roam free.

The group would spend a lot of their Summer weekends down on the Swan river canoeing, fishing and swimming. They had all completed their swimming lessons at the Point Reserve where the annual official swimming lessons were conducted between the two wooden jetties. The area on the river’s edge in Ashfield known as White Rocks, where French Street meets Ashfield Parade, and opposite Ron Courtney Island, was where the group would normally launch their canoe and paddle North up the river towards Bassendean and Guilford, past the popular swimming areas of Sandy Beach and the Point Reserve towards the Swan Valley vineyards. With the sun on their shoulders, hand fishing lines dragging the water at the rear of the canoe, the transistor radio set to their favourite station and their Vegemite sandwiches, Milk Arrowroot biscuits and Anchore raspberry cordial packed in their metal tartan finish Willow esky, they paddled near the streaked arrowgrass, shorerushes, sheoaks and paperbarks which formed the landscape along some parts of the river’s edge, stopping every now and then along the way to rest on the river’s bank and check the hand lines for any fish caught.

Tony and his friends were oblivious to the history of the area and its significance to any specific culture as they conducted their river adventures, and lives in general, from the perspective of white Christian inhabitants. It was their time to explore and to feel truly free from the restrictions imposed on them by their parents, the rules and regulations of society and an Education system where wearing a school uniform formed part of a structured academic environment. They had no knowledge that the Swan and Canning Rivers and their tributaries hold great significance to the Australian Indigenous Noongar people as being created and sacred to the rainbow serpent Waugal, a Dreamtime spirit taking the form of a giant snake. Aboriginal Elders taught Noongar people that the Waugal created creeks, waterholes, lakes and valleys whilst also creating the Swan River on its journey to the ocean. This strong connection is still significant to Aboriginal people who are the traditional caretakers of the land. Noongar’s close connection with the rivers and surrounding areas forms the basis for much of their culture, spirituality, and identity. For Noongar people, access to freshwater and the resources provided by the land and rivers, was central to their survival.

Oblivious to such history, and not because of ignorance or by racial indifference, but by the lack of knowledge, they immersed themselves in the immediate landscape that has been their playground since they were born. The music emanating from their transistor radio was not the sound of any Australian Indigenous culture, but that of the 1960s groups such as the Beetles and Rolling Stones. The food they hunted, other than the fish in the river, were the assortment of tinned, boxed, bagged and fresh produce that was available at the local Freecorns store in Bassendean. They also liked fish and chips, mortadella slices and fresh crusty bread that they purchased from the fish and chips shop near Di Blasio barbers on Old Perth Road where they used to get their hair cut, then walk down to the football oval to watch Swans play on their home ground. This was their Dreamtime.

"Let’s Be Honest"

I lived in Bassendean for close to 5 years. I realised how bad it is after I left. There are regularly people lurking the streets and walking towards the train station. Often I would hear screaming and bottles thrown around my street. I thought this was acceptable until I moved closer to the city.

Cars were often a target with our cars being opened twice and objects thrown about. Neighbours can be a gamble. Had a young group of adult men who were often extremely drunk or under the influence of drugs and would fight in their house and on the street.

We even had people ask for money near our house and had plants stolen from our yard. You never feel completely safe. Totally different feeling where we now live (Mt Lawley/North Perth).

The reviews here appear positive and that is great news but it is often people who are in Bassendean for life or perhaps are moving to a worse area. Since leaving and moving closer to the city we haven’t looked back.

Driving to Bassendean from the city during peak times takes up to 45 minutes due to the traffic. People will argue take the train and feel free to - just be aware that there is a high chance of being disturbed by a drunk or drug addict who is obnoxious or worse.

Holly Rayes is good otherwise don’t bother with Bassendean hotel etc. Yes there are monthly markets but it is nothing better than the Northam Show.

Seriously consider if you are looking to buy here. You won’t regret moving on.

"Will miss Bassendean - Sad to be moving on"

I have loved living in Bassendean the past year and a half. The suburb has a real sense of community and is always doing something, e.g. Community outdoor cinema, mini food carnivals, monthly markets, decorate your mailbox Halloween competition, Australia Day fireworks and family friendly concerts. Bassendean is only a short taxi ride to The Guildford Hotel and The Rose & Crown. It also boats it's own local pubs, The Basso Hotel and The Cork & Bottle. Public transport is easy as the suburb runs along a train line which goes directly to the city. The river is great for walking and the people you meet are very friendly - and there is always plenty of dogs for pats! I have been very fortunate to have lovely neighbours who are quiet but like to chat when you see them around. The aircraft noise has not been too bad from my street (Wilson) and you quickly get used to it. The first night I was a bit shocked after coming from a suburb further from the airport but I barely notice it now. Bassendean is a beautiful suburb that unfortunately gets a bad wrap. I will truly miss living here.

"Best decision we ever made"

We bought a character home on Kenny Street 8 years ago and have never regretted it. We are exactly halfway between two train stations (Ashfield & Bassendean) and both work in the city so never have any hassles commuting. There is also a bus stop around the corner if we feel inclined. We moved in when a lot of other young families did too and as such there is a wealth of facilities for families. A number of daycare centres (3) child nurse, exceptional GP, parks & playgrounds, private & public schools (including Montessori & Catholic). In the last 3 years it has boomed again with coffee shops, pubs, gift shops & delicious food all along Old Perth road & an upgraded shopping centre with massive Coles, specialty stores & Huge Dome cafe. It is the home of the Swans and many a local are passionate about their team. Only 11kms from the CBD Basso truly has everything at it's fingertips. Three major shopping centres (Midland, Galleria, Belmont) are a short 10 min away. We don't hear the planes or trains during the day, only very late at night when it is still. Living on the beautiful Swan river where you will see the occasional dolphin is a joy. We love Basso so much we would never consider living anywhere else.

"Not safe. In fact rather scary. If your not on the riverfront...dont even think about it."

Lets see how these true statements grab you. 2 murders in the last 2 months, car thefts weekly, assaults daily, break and enter daily, barb wire many places, grafitti everywhere, loitering a normal thing, public drunkardness and substance abuse, train stations stink of urine, damaged, vandalised. Dont even bother going to the Success Hill station at night or any time of the day. Look at the houses in front of it covered in barbwire etc The town is covered in broken glass and litter. Its disgusting.

reddogit doesnt matter where you live if you hang around train station all night you will get this impression

2yrs+

LooBooWhy is it that those who have something bad to say, don't actually live here??
I was so incensed by your verbal diarhoea, I had to check for myself. The barb wire you talk about is the station perimeter, like any station you'll come across throughout Australia. The station is also a very small, unmanned station, so of course it will seem scary in the middle of the night. I found one sign, with the smallest bit of graffiti. I have never found the Bassendean station to have much vandalism or smell of urine.
Why don't you tell us where you live, so we can tell lies and exaggerate as well.

2yrs+

Sar JayAgreed. Did you look at the suburb out the train window at night? Clearly haven't actually been anywhere else

Aug 15, 2016

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The opinions expressed within this review are those of the individual reviewer and not those of Homely.com.au.Report

"Cess-pit of crime."

I bought a couple of houses here on the river side of Bassendean about 2 years ago. I originally thought it was the most perfect place and loved the river, close proximity to local shops and the train. Over the last year I have started to see it for what it is.... A complete crime haven. It's full of junkies, hoons, beggars etc and it's not safe to go out after dark and sometimes during the day. The dregs of society lurk everywhere. there's been about 3 murders in the last 18 months, car hackings, shootings and stabbings. The train line is a complete no-go area at night so forget trying to get home from the city if you want a night out. The only pub is a stinking hole, full of bogans. The smell on the one occasion I went there was so bad of BO it made my eyes water and rough is not the word! Even the parks aren't safe with certain members of the community throwing darts at the wildlife and generally being threatening. I can't wait to get out.

MartlThis comment is total nonsense. I have lived on the river side of Bassendean for 12 years and the description above would not see me walk my dogs at night like I do without incident or continue to live in the area. Perhaps the person that wrote this is a touch delusional and has some other agenda.

2yrs+

avyoung1970I catch the train every day to work, which is in Freo, I also catch it home from the city late on the weekends, no dramas. All my neighbours are extremely friendly and I knew them all within days of moving to Anzac Terrace, which has never happened in any other location that I have lived (here, interstate and overseas). One of the best suburbs that I have ever lived in, no dramas at all apart from the odd barking dog. I grew up in Glasgow South East in the 70's and 80's when it was the murder capital of the world, so I think I may know what you mean by "dreggs", trust me there is no comparison. You sound a little precious to me ;) Most suburbs that are near the train line (crime line) will have some issues with undesirables, but its not a real issue in Bassendean, I think you need to open your eyes and travel a bit, not to Bali either !!

2yrs+

MarjHExactly, Anon33 get out and live a bit. If you think Bassendean is bad you've really got problems. Bassendean has good and bad but it's nothing like the crime ridden place you portray. I'd say delusional is being polite. Sounds like there is some agenda going on there. If you don't like it move out - soon.

2yrs+

Sar JayErm have to totally disagree with others who have questioned Annon33. I have NEVER experienced what you are claiming. I regularly walk my dog at night & no hassle, same with catching the train at night. I think you will find the 'Crime' you speak of rare - picking up the Eastern Reporter where these figures are recorded weekly will support me in this statement. And lack of forward thinking council? Are you for real? Our monthly markets, Jazz in the park festival, visual arts exhibitions & other cultural events belie that statement. Are you sure you actually live in Bassendean

Aug 14, 2016

Sar JaySorry first sentence should say agree with those questioning annon33

Aug 14, 2016

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The opinions expressed within this review are those of the individual reviewer and not those of Homely.com.au.Report

"Relaxing and friendly"

Moved here in May 2013, live close to train and shops and love it. Neighbours are friendly, we feel very relaxed living here, even the Mayor dropped by to say hello and welcome us to the neighbourhood. There is some noise from aircraft taking off, which is not that bad and we occasionally hear the trains but that's a small price to pay for a suburb that is only around 11 kms from CBD. Its good to see some investment going into the shopping center, Basso Hotel, etc..

"Friendly and undervalued but for how long?"

We bought a big house in Bassendean and have neighbours who wont leave us alone. They are always offering us fruit, meals, drinks, share tips, etc. It is really very friendly and that easy going feeling can be found throughout. I don't know about Bassendean over the railway but on the river side, the living is very good.

"Family Friendly"

Its amazing how many families now call Bassendean home. The streets are alive with kids playing safely and has a real homely feel. Great value too, can pick up a house on a quarter acre 10 km from the city for the same price as 300m2 5 km from the city.

"Undervalued"

The local agents need to bring the value of Bassendean house prices in line with other suburbs 10kms from city. With the new shopping centre soon surely it's time for our land value to go up!! When other real estate agents come in from other suburbs they can't believe what you get for your money. Great for buyers, terrible when you want to sell and get into another suburb 10kms from the city!

"Resale or rental value"

if you want your property to increase in value perhaps bassendean is not the place. Yes it's cheap to buy into bassendean but the value stays the same over a long period of time !! Land value and houses seem to be undervalued considering it's 10kms from the city,

"I love living in Bassendean!"

We bought a cottage in Bassendean last year as we couldn't afford the Mount Lawley price tag. Bassendean is underrated as a suburb and has received some bad press in the past and it's really sad! Sure it's got it's downfalls but so does every suburb. We live right next to the train station, therefore we only have to own the one car and you have some fantastic places at your doorstep such as Guildford, the swan valley and the swan river. I can walk to the shopping centre and it's only a few minutes away from the Galleria or Midland. Easy access to Tonkin highway and the airport to. There are some beautiful character homes and is so much cheaper than other suburbs to live and still close to the city. There's a few nice takeaway places in the town but hopefully in a few years the town will really take off with more cafes and restaurants.

"Hidden gem so close to everything"

Great location, so close to the city, airport, swan valley, river and all major roads, no need to contend with the Kwinana Freeway circus, major plus. A melting pot of all ages, 0-95, rich and not so rich, friendly folk. Couple of school options, public and private. Lots of big blocks and character houses. Does get a bit of bad press due to close proximity to Ashfield, a minority and not the general norm. Undervalued housing considering close proximity to city.

"Country in the City"

Moved to Bassendean from the Northern suburbs and have found the relax and rual lifestyle a charm to live in. Green, peaceful and great place for kids to play in parks and around the river. No problems at all with crime as other people will tell you, crimes unforuntately happen everywhere and it is at a rate no different in Bassendean than to Nedlands.

"Country Life on the River, yet just quick & easy trip to the city!"

Where else can you have the river, the train and be only 11kms from the city. It feels semi-rural, with lots of massive trees and some great bush walks that make you feel like you are somewhere else in the world.
I love that there are still big blocks, some massive ones along the river. Horses are still a regular sight. The river is fabulous and runs south of Bassendean and continues around the suburb on the East, so most walks meet the river. I love the diversity of people in Bassendean, a few eccentric characters and an amazing resource of creativity. We have many hidden talents among the TV & film industry hiding within the suburb. One well known identity is Rolf Harris. The people are amazingly friendly. I have made stronger friendships here in the last 4 years than a lifetime in my home town. I also love the diversity of people, some super rich along side the everyday man. I love that the dogs I come across are generally the happy cutesy type and not the I want to rip your leg off and take it home for supper. The markets are also a great edition. I live conveniently only 800metres from Coles & Woolworths. If I had to leave, I don't know where I would go.

"top place"

lovely old village feel has potential to turn into a mt lawley centrally located to swan vallay,swan river,perth city,perth airport what more do you want oh thats right the beach ,ah well cant have it all.

"Very happy and relaxed in Bassendean"

I moved to Perth in 2002 and bought a house in Bassendean shortly afterwards. I've always felt very happy and relaxed and have formed many friendships with people living nearby over the years. I also appreciate being so central to everything, particularly Perth city, the Swan Valley and Midland/Morley shopping areas.

"Could not imagine living anywhere else!"

My family and I have lived in the suburb of Bassendean for 6 years now and could not imagine living anywhere else. I have a 9 year old daughter and a second child on the way. I believe Bassendean has everything we need to live a very content life.

Bassendean Village Shopping Centre as well as a family-owned supermarket only walking distance away, meet most of our shopping needs.

We enjoy watersports so appreciate the close proximity to the river, as well as to the Swan Valley winery region, Perth CBD, Tonkin Highway, for when we travel south for the weekend, Centro Galleria shopping precinct and the Guildford cafe and antique shop strip. Public transport is also very easily accessible.

The street we live on is very quiet so I have no hesitation in allowing my daughter to spend time in our front yard.

I would highly recommend this suburb for families or couples that enjoy the finer things in life and most importantly, an overall sense of contentment.